Latest news with #MichaellaBolder
Irish Examiner
4 hours ago
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Sally Foran: I tried Medik8's €140 'age-defying' retinal facial — here's what I thought
Medik8's new crystal retinal age-defying facial combines two of my favourite elements in skin care — retinal and facial massage. Designed in collaboration with master facialist Michaella Bolder, it merges the brand's signature retinal technology with an expert sculpting massage to tackle signs of ageing, all while remaining kind to skin. I travelled to The Spa at Johnston Estate, Co Meath for an exclusive trial of the new treatment. Here's what I thought. Who are Medik8? Medik8 are the UK's number one dermatological brand, best known for their iconic 'Crystal Retinal' range. Retinal, a form of vitamin A, works up to 11 times faster than standard retinol. It's the strongest retinoid available without prescription and is just one conversion away for the active retinoic acid (most retinols are a couple of conversaions away from retinoic acid meaning they can cause less irritation, but can also be less effective). Medik8's Crystal Retinal range has options for beginners through to seasoned retinol/retinal pros Available in six strengths, from beginners to long-time retinal users, there's an option for everyone in the range. With antibacterial properties, it is also ideal for acne-prone skin. Many experts now recommend using retinal instead of retinol, just make sure you start 'low and slow', gradually increasing strengths as your skin adjusts. I chose Medik8 when I started my retinal journey and after experiencing impressive results, it's doubtful I'll ever switch to a prescription-strength retinoid. What is the 'age defying facial'? Daniel Isaac, Medik8's chief product officer and founding partner, said the new crystal retinal age defying facial "marks a new era" for the brand. "For the first time we're bringing our award-winning retinal technology into the clinic, offering a fully customisable results-driven treatment, that combines the age-defying power of retinal and Vitamin C in one treatment" It's also notable that Michaella Boulder, a leading master facialist with over 17 years of experience, has had a hand in its design. A favourite amongst celebrities and global skincare brands, I first discovered Michaella at a Lancome event in London, and after witnessing her signature, sculpting massage techniques in action, I immediately became a fan. Facial massage has many benefits; it improves blood flow, stimulates collagen, reduces inflammation, eases tension and promotes relaxation. Boulder says she designed the bespoke massage to work "in perfect harmony with Medik8's powerful anti-ageing crystal retinal formula and enhance its results'. Combining vitamins A and C with sculpting techniques helps to optimise retinal absorption, lift facial contours, support lymphatic drainage and deliver both instant and long-term results. This unique combination promises to offer a transformative result, leaving skin smoother, firmer and clearer. My experience Sally Foran, before her facial As the facial is customisable, my treatment began with a skin analysis. After a thorough cleanse, a light lactic acid peel was applied. Next, drops of crystal retinal were mixed with 10% pure vitamin C, in a hydrating mask. These drops are fast-releasing, for a quicker hit, unlike at home retinal, which is slower releasing. The mask was massaged into my face and neck, with Boulder's sculpting techniques, enabling the ingredients to penetrate deeper into my skin, for the ultimate absorption of retinal. I left with sculpted, glowing, nourished and smoother skin, which lasted for days. I left with a customised recommended retinal routine to foll at home to futher enhance and accelerate results. Sally Foran, after her facial Recommended for anyone who wants to soften fine lines and wrinkles, enhance radiance, plump, firm, depuff or sculpt skin, it is the ideal pre-event facial. I'm already planning my next visit! The details Location: The Spa at The Johnstown Estate, Co Meath. Cost: €140 for 60 minutes, with 90 minutes of rest and relaxation included in the spa's thermal facilities Sally Foran received a complimentary treatment in exchange for a fair and honest review
Graziadaily
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Graziadaily
This LED Lip Mask Was On Sirens And Has Gone Viral – We Put It To The Test
In case you missed it, Sirens is the latest Netflix sensation taking social media by storm - and it's easy to see why. At the centre of the buzz is Julianne Moore, who dazzles as Michaela 'Kiki' Kell, a billionaire philanthropist with an eye for excess. Think: sparkling diamonds, flowing silks (the outfits in Sirens are particularly good), and ultra-luxurious beauty tech. One of her devices in particular has set the internet ablaze: the CurrentBody Skin LED Lip Perfector. Moore was spotted using it alongside her co-star Milly Alcock while prepping for a Vanity Fair photoshoot- and no, it isn't just a glamorous stage prop. The high-tech lip mask, which looks like something out of a sci-fi film, is very much real and available to shop. With glowing reviews from beauty lovers the world over, it's more than just a viral moment – but with a price tag nearing £190, the big question remains: is it actually worth the splurge? The Currentbody Skin Led Lip Perfector has been made with 56-deep penetrating LED bulbs to achieve more 'youthful looking lips.' It may sound (and look) a bit whacky, but there's plenty of research to support the idea that LED bulbs can have a beneficial effect on skin. With effective use (at least 3 minutes a day, every day) users should apparently see the softening of feather, smile and marionette lines as well as an increased plumping and evening of lip tone and texture. There's no pain, and no heat. 1. Currentbody Skin Led Lip Perfector What Currentbody says: 'An anti-ageing LED mask for youthful lips. Expect 56 deep-penetrating LED bulbs that will minimise wrinkles while plumping.' What we know: There's always something weird and wonderful where beauty tech is concerned - this one being the perfect example. For those who want a targeted lip and mouth treatment, this nifty device could be just the ticket. Look to the consistently good customer reviews for proof. Michaella Bolder, Grazia beauty panellist and facialist says:'Using a targeted tool such as LED will help to boost blood flow in the lips and encourage an increase in collagen production to improve lip balm absorption, plump and reduce fine lines created around the lip area through dehydration.' Pros Small - great for travelling Easy to use Quick Cons Industry leading facialist and Grazia beauty panellist Michaella Bolder says: 'LED lip masks like this one from Currentbody are a targeted tool designed specifically for the lip and outer lip areas,' she explains. 'The lips do not contain sebaceous glands (those responsible for producing serum / oily content) therefore they cannot withhold moisture and hydration alone. This is why we need to apply lip balm on a daily basis to keeps lips feeling soft and supple. Using a targeted tool such as LED will help to boost blood flow in the lips and encourage an increase in collagen production to improve lip balm absorption, plump and reduce fine lines created around the lip area through dehydration.' Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'This device is refreshingly simple to use- you just pop it in your mouth, much like a baby's dummy, and gently bite down for three minutes while the LED technology gets to work. There's no notable sensation- no tingling or heat- which makes it feel pleasantly low-effort. To be completely transparent, I haven't been using it long enough to see a dramatic difference in the fine lines around my mouth or the fullness of my lips. That said, I'm committed to sticking with it, knowing that results with devices like this take time. Plus, if it comes recommended by Michaella Bolder, I'm all in. Watch this space for my full review in a few weeks time.' This is far from the first time Netflix has been a hotbed for brilliant LED beauty recommendations. Case in point? The viral CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask, £299 beloved by Lily Collins in season three of Emily in Paris . Fictional beauty influencers aside, it would seem IRL beauty experts are willing to lend their seal of approval to LED technology when it comes to beauty treatments which work - just don't forget to be consistent. Rachael Martin is Grazia's beauty director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen's University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism. After interning at Stylist and Harper's Bazaar she dipped her toes into the world of beauty writing and never looked back. Rachael became Style Writer for heat! magazine before going onto work as Digital Writer for Boots Health and Beauty. Her special interests include fragrance (rose based scents have her at hello), new skincare innovations, and copious cups of tea. Now, at Grazia, you'll find her writing about beauty, health and wellbeing. Follow her on Instagram @
